Topical Encyclopedia Jonathan Jonathan is a prominent figure in the Old Testament, known primarily as the son of King Saul and the close friend of David. His account is found in the books of 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel. Jonathan is celebrated for his loyalty and selflessness, particularly in his relationship with David, whom he recognized as God's chosen future king of Israel. Despite his father's animosity towards David, Jonathan made a covenant with David, demonstrating his commitment to God's will over familial allegiance. In 1 Samuel 18:3-4 , it is written, "Then Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. Jonathan took off the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, his sword, his bow, and his belt." Jonathan's life ended tragically in battle alongside his father on Mount Gilboa (1 Samuel 31:2). Shemaiah Shemaiah is a name associated with several individuals in the Old Testament. One notable Shemaiah was a prophet during the reign of Rehoboam, the son of Solomon. He is mentioned in 1 Kings 12:22-24 and 2 Chronicles 11:2-4, where he delivered God's message to Rehoboam, advising him not to fight against the northern tribes of Israel after the kingdom divided. Shemaiah's obedience to God's word helped prevent a civil war. Another Shemaiah is mentioned in Nehemiah 6:10, where he is depicted as a false prophet attempting to intimidate Nehemiah. Mattaniah Mattaniah is a name that appears several times in the Old Testament, often associated with the Levitical lineage. One significant Mattaniah was the original name of Zedekiah, the last king of Judah before the Babylonian exile. He was appointed king by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, and his name was changed from Mattaniah to Zedekiah (2 Kings 24:17). Another Mattaniah is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 9:15 as a Levite and a descendant of Asaph, involved in the musical worship in the temple. Micaiah Micaiah, the son of Imlah, is a prophet known for his boldness and commitment to speaking God's truth, regardless of the consequences. His account is recounted in 1 Kings 22 and 2 Chronicles 18, where he prophesied against King Ahab of Israel. Despite pressure to conform to the favorable prophecies of other prophets, Micaiah declared the truth of Israel's impending defeat, saying, "As surely as the LORD lives, I will speak whatever the LORD tells me" (1 Kings 22:14). His courage serves as a testament to the importance of faithfulness to God's word. Zaccur Zaccur is a name found in the genealogies and lists of the Old Testament, often associated with the tribe of Levi. One Zaccur is mentioned in Nehemiah 12:35 as a priestly musician who participated in the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem. Another Zaccur is listed as the father of Shammua, one of the spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan (Numbers 13:4). Asaph Asaph is a significant figure in the Old Testament, known as a Levite and a chief musician during the reigns of David and Solomon. He is credited with authoring several Psalms, including Psalms 50 and 73-83. Asaph's role as a worship leader is highlighted in 1 Chronicles 16:4-5, where he is appointed to minister before the Ark of the Covenant, "to give thanks and to praise the LORD, the God of Israel." Asaph's descendants continued his musical legacy, serving in the temple worship and contributing to the rich tradition of Hebrew psalmody. Subtopics Jonathan: A Levite of Bethlehem, Who Becomes a Priest for Micah Jonathan: Also Called Johanan: A Descendant of Jeshua Jonathan: Nephew of David, Kills a Giant, and Becomes One of David's Chief Warriors Jonathan: One of David's Heroes Jonathan: Secretary of the Cabinet of David Jonathan: Son of Abiathar: Acts As a Spy for David Jonathan: Son of Abiathar: Informs Adonijah of Solomon's Succession to David Jonathan: Son of Saul: Buried by Inhabitants of Jabesh-Gilead Jonathan: Son of Saul: Killed in the Battle With the Philistines Jonathan: Son of Saul: Love of, for David Jonathan: Son of Saul: Mourned by David Jonathan: Son of Saul: Rescued by the People Jonathan: Son of Saul: Son of, Cared for by David Jonathan: Son of Saul: Victory of, Over the Philistine Garrison of Geba Jonathan: Son of Saul: Victory of, Over the Philistines at Michmash Jonathan: The Name of Two Priests Related Terms |